Innovative Bioenergy Systems in Action The Mureck bio-Energy Cycle: Synergistic Effects and Socio-economic, Political and Sociocultural Aspects of Rural Bioenergy Systems

Abstract: This thesis aims to offer insights into the initiation and development of modern (rural) bioenergy systems. For this reason, the thesis explores the formation, evolution and regional effects of three bioenergy projects ? a biodiesel cooperative, a biomass district heating plant and a biogas plant ? that are co-located within the small rural community of Mureck, in Austria. It finds that the three projects form an industrial ecosystem that is founded on a unique and innovative architecture, and that is characterised by a more efficient use of materials and energy. By adopting a system dynamics perspective, the thesis explains the gradual evolution of this industrial ecosystem, influenced by the closed-loop philosophy and the broad bio-ecological vision of one developer, and emerging as all actors have sought to minimise transaction costs. It further shows that much of the innovative character of this system was largely due to the formation of a regional cooperation triangle among research institutions, technology suppliers and implementers. Next, the thesis explores the favourable policy context that has fostered the evolution of this system. A socio-economic section analyses the regional benefits generated by this industrial ecosystem and shows that these range from increased heating convenience and prestige among local residents, to increased self-sufficiency and to value added to the region. Finally, a socio-cultural analysis explores why this system, as well as other bioenergy projects in the region, were essentially driven by endogenous forces. It finds that bioenergy projects have represented over time a considerable income-alternative for farmers, and that such projects may fit well within rural communities. By highlighting the features of the (regional) rural culture, the section provides an additional means of interpreting the formation of the industrial ecosystem in Mureck, and stresses that bioenergy projects play an important role for the development of rural regions. Based on the innovative Mureck case, the study indicates general preconditions for the successful diffusion of bioenergy systems.